Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Imagine a dish that brings together the bold flavor of a perfectly seared steak with the luscious, buttery splendor of shrimp scampi all on one plate—the Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe is truly surf and turf elegance made effortlessly at home. This meal is pure celebration, whether you’re craving a restaurant-style treat or planning a cozy date night. The rich steak juices mingle with a garlicky, lemon-kissed scampi sauce that leaves nothing behind but pure satisfaction. It’s impressive yet very doable, making it a recipe you’ll want to revisit any time you want to treat yourself or someone special.
Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe all starts with simple but top-notch ingredients. Each one has a purpose—whether it’s building the perfect crust on your steak, adding lusciousness to the sauce, or delivering pops of freshness and brightness at the end.
- Ribeye or sirloin steaks: Choose a well-marbled, 1-inch thick cut for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning both meats, they highlight and intensify savory notes.
- Olive oil: Helps create that irresistible sear and locks in moisture for juicy steaks.
- Large shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star of the scampi; make sure they’re fresh and plump for the best texture.
- Unsalted butter: Delivers richness and carries all the garlicky, zesty flavors of the sauce.
- Garlic (minced): Brings aromatic depth—don’t skimp if you love bold flavor.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a gentle heat that’s just enough to tingle without overwhelming.
- Dry white wine or chicken broth: Deglazes the pan and adds a subtle tang; choose wine for depth or broth for a lighter touch.
- Lemon juice: Brightens up the rich sauce and balances its buttery notes.
- Fresh chopped parsley: Adds a green pop and freshness right before serving.
- Lemon wedges for serving: Squeezing these at the table gives an extra burst of flavor.
How to Make Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Step 1: Season the Steaks
Begin by patting your ribeye or sirloin steaks dry with paper towels—this helps achieve that mouthwatering sear. Sprinkle salt and black pepper generously on both sides, making sure every inch is covered. This simple step enhances both the taste and the crust you’re about to build.
Step 2: Sear the Steaks
Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high until shimmering. Gently lay in your seasoned steaks and listen for that sizzle! Sear undisturbed for 3–4 minutes per side to lock in juices and create a golden-brown crust; adjust the timing for your preferred doneness. Move the steaks to a plate, loosely tented with foil to keep them warm.
Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, letting them gently sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and the lemon juice, whisking up any delicious browned bits left from the steak—that’s where so much flavor lives! Let this bubble for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add your shrimp in a single layer to the skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, just until they’re pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook—they continue to finish in the pan’s residual heat and should remain succulent and juicy.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return your steaks (and their resting juices) to the skillet, nestling them right in the scampi sauce and shrimp. Spoon some of the flavorful sauce and a few shrimp over each steak. Heat everything together for a minute, just to meld the flavors and serve hot, showered with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
How to Serve Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley gives a burst of color and lightness, while a few lemon wedges on the side let each diner customize their citrusy bite. Don’t forget a pinch of flaky sea salt right before serving to really make the flavors pop.
Side Dishes
Classic garlic mashed potatoes or a bowl of silky pasta are perfect teammates to this Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe, soaking up the garlicky pan sauce. If you want to keep things lighter, consider a crunchy salad, simply steamed asparagus, or fluffy cauliflower rice.
Creative Ways to Present
For a restaurant-worthy touch, try slicing the steak and fanning it out, topped with the shrimp and plenty of sauce drizzled over everything. Or serve the scampi and steak over a bed of sautéed spinach, finished with a scatter of microgreens and a lemon twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers from your Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe to an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 days, though the steak is always at its best freshly cooked.
Freezing
For best flavor and texture, it’s not ideal to freeze the shrimp or steak after cooking, as they can become rubbery when thawed. If you must, wrap them separately and freeze for up to a month, but know that fresh will always be superior for this dish.
Reheating
Gently reheat steak and shrimp in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water, just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, which can make the proteins tough—low and slow keeps everything tender and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for the Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe?
Absolutely! While ribeye and sirloin are juicy favorites, filet mignon or New York strip also shine in this surf and turf. Just adjust your cooking times based on thickness and preference.
Can I make the scampi sauce alcohol-free?
Yes, you can easily swap the white wine for chicken broth in your Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe without sacrificing flavor. The broth adds depth and still gives you that deliciously saucy result.
How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?
Keep an eye out: shrimp turn pink and curl into a gentle “C” shape when they’re ready. Overcooked shrimp will be tough and make a full circle, so pull them off as soon as they’re just opaque.
What can I use instead of parsley for garnish?
Fresh basil, chives, or even a pinch of dill can provide an equally bright and colorful finish if you’re out of parsley. Use whichever you have on hand!
Can I double this Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe for guests?
Definitely! Simply double all the ingredients and, if needed, sear the steaks and shrimp in batches so as not to crowd the pan. Everyone will have a plate of deliciousness hot and ready.
Final Thoughts
If you’re seeking a true restaurant-worthy dinner that’s achievable any night of the week, let this Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe steal the show. Roll up your sleeves, gather your favorite people, and treat them (and yourself) to something unforgettable—you’ll be happy you did!
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Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the perfect surf and turf combination with this Steak and Shrimp Scampi recipe. Juicy ribeye or sirloin steaks paired with succulent shrimp in a garlicky, buttery sauce, this dish is sure to impress your taste buds.
Ingredients
For the Steaks:
- 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Shrimp Scampi:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Steaks: Season steaks with salt and pepper. Sear in a skillet until desired doneness. Set aside.
- Make Shrimp Scampi: In the same skillet, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes in butter. Add shrimp and cook until pink. Pour in wine, lemon juice, and simmer.
- Combine and Serve: Return steaks to skillet, warm through, and top with scampi sauce. Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Pair with garlic mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread.
- For a lighter option, serve over cauliflower rice or with steamed vegetables.
- Use jumbo shrimp for an elegant presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak with shrimp
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 58g
- Cholesterol: 245mg